December 12,2023
By Robyn Hernandez
At just 20 years old, Emmett is traveling to the South facing bulls in possibly one of the most hair raising ways…Freestyle Bullfighting.
Born and raised in Weiser, Emmett was inspired to become a bull fighter through a lifetime in and around Rodeos. “I have a lot of family who are ropers and I’ve never been great with a rope but bull fighting just clicked.”
Freestyle Bull fighting is a 60 second match , with the first 40 seconds being a mandatory consistent fighting time. After 40 seconds, fighters may earn extra points by continuously engaging in competition with the bull and performing tricks such as back or front flips and jumping the charging bull.
In preparation of these nerve-wracking events, Emmett is hard focused on his skill and athleticism. “I work out a lot, lots of cardio. We practice with dummy work and a drop barrel. We also use Mexican fighting cows, it’s a form of safe practicing.”
Being face to face with an angry beast is just as bracing and unnerving as it sounds. Emmett explained, “It’s really just a blur, it’s all going so fast and your adrenalines pumping. Its really about reading and reacting fast to the bull.”
Through his rookie year career journey, Emmett has traveled far to compete in different events. From Swainsboro, Georgia to Broken Bow, Nebraska, Emmett is enjoying his life-long dream. “ Broken Bow was completely packed out with people and there were some good bulls” says Emmett commenting on his favorite events so far.
Bullfighting is strong and growing in the South and Emmett is faithful that it will continue to grow here in Idaho. Emmett is committed and inspired to become great in this highly physical rodeo sport with great aspirations to go to the World Championship. “I want to make it to the World Championship. Be a top contender every year at every event. It’s consistency really.”
Emmett was recently at the Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth Texas for the Ultimate Bullfighting World Finals where he fought both Thursday December 7th and Saturday the 9th. His next bullfight is this Friday, December 15th in Fort Worth Texas. If Friday nights fight is successful, Emmett will also be in the arena on Saturday the 16th.
Viewing for these events are available on Pluto TV Ride Pass , Free TV, and streamed live on the Ultimate Bullfighters YouTube channel.
If you are interested in sponsoring Weiser-native Emmett Walker in his battles to World Championship please reach out for contact information.
(Courtesy Photos)
